The Western Bulldogs women’s team was put through its paces at Eureka Stadium in its first training session in Ballarat on Saturday.
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The open session allowed friends and family, dedicated Bulldogs fans and inspired juniors girls footballers an opportunity to get a first-hand look at the side.
Home-grown footballer Laura Bailey said it was amazing to see all the support and expected the numbers to only grow once the team actually plays some matches in Ballarat when the AFL women’s football league begins in February.
"It was amazing,” Bailey said.
"It was the first time the girls were exposed to getting to know local Ballarat ... I know myself and the girls were really humbled by the turnout.
"It was a little bit special for myself. I love Ballarat, so I love coming home and to be able to experience Eureka Stadium before it all kicks off was amazing.”
Bailey added that the team was overwhelmed by how good the facilities at Eureka Stadium were and said once the grandstand’s are completed it will make for a brilliant atmosphere.
“I can only imagine the atmosphere it's going to create when it's all done.”
The training session was led by coach Paul Groves and midfield coach and 146-game Melbourne footballer Nathan Brown along with some of the club’s assistant coaches.